When the going gets tough, it can be challenging to keep going. You’ve probably heard repeatedly how important a positive outlook is to recovery. Sobriety isn’t something that happens overnight, and it will take hard work and determination to continue when you face difficulties that affect you mentally, emotionally, and even physically. However, by staying positive, you’ll find that things that once triggered you to want to use drugs or alcohol have less power over you.
Even if you consider yourself a pessimist or your recent circumstances have led you to believe that recovery is futile, it’s possible to think more positively about your future with some practice. That doesn’t mean ignoring the uglier parts of life; it just means refocusing and looking for the silver lining whenever possible. Staying positive during difficult times can improve recovery outcomes and lead to long-term success.
7 Summit Pathways provides addiction and mental health treatment to help individuals find lasting recovery. Call 813.212.7149 today to learn more about how can help you overcome challenges and achieve the life you deserve.
How to Stay Positive in Difficult Times
When dealing with mental health concerns or substance use disorder, it can be challenging to maintain a positive outlook. The following are helpful tips on how to stay positive in difficult times:
Envision a Worthwhile Future
When you’re amid addiction, it may be difficult to imagine a future that’s good or even worthwhile. However, it’s essential to break out of this mindset and think about your goals and dreams coming true. For staying positive in tough times, imagine the positive outcomes that will accompany your life of sobriety. Take some time to write about your future life optimistically. This exercise will be a huge mood booster even when recovery is challenging.
Count Your Blessings
Notice and appreciate the positives in your life by approaching people and situations with gratitude. True happiness doesn’t happen by accident. Instead of dreading the start of a new day, see it as a gift. If you’re finding this process difficult, here are some actionable steps that may help increase your gratefulness:
- Write a letter thanking someone kind to you during your recovery process. If possible, deliver it in person.
- Keep a journal where you write down anything, large or small that makes you smile.
- Stop and savor the lovelier moments, even if that means being late for an appointment.
You can also share your good news with a friend, especially positive developments in your recovery journey.
Surround Yourself with Positive People
A positive support network is crucial, whether friends and family members who support your recovery journey or a trained counselor with the skills and professional background to guide you. Don’t strive to make as many friends as possible. Instead, focus on your close relationships and work to establish trust and enjoy the people you love.
Resist Worrisome Thoughts
With practice, you can get out of your own head, resist worrying, and even transform that internal critic who never seems pleased despite all your progress. If you find that your mind continually focuses on the negative and you’re obsessing about your problems, here are a few tips to stifle those unpleasant thoughts:
- Give yourself a specific time later on to think about a problematic issue. Chances are, you’ll feel much better about it by that time.
- Distract yourself with something fun or healthy. Watch a movie, listen to music, or jog around the block.
Additionally, focusing on helping others can get your mind off your own problems and help you find a sense of tranquility.
Take Care of Yourself
It may seem obvious, but eating right, getting plenty of sleep, and staying physically active will help keep pessimism at bay. When you’re struggling physically, it’s much harder to manage your emotions. Healthy habits will have a significant impact on helping you maintain a positive outlook.
Call 7 Summit Pathways Today for Help Staying Positive in Tough Times
Thinking negatively can drag down your moods, actions, and health. If you’re finding it challenging to stay positive during your recovery from drug or alcohol addiction, 7 Summit Pathways is here to help. Our holistic and highly personalized treatment plans can focus on your needs, addressing triggers that make your recovery more complex.
We invite you to contact us online or call 813.212.7149. Your journey to freedom and positivity starts today.